Sure, you've read Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone all the way through to the Deathly Hallows, but what about Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts? No, it's not a forgotten chapter of the beloved series, it's a Universal Studios roller coaster that's been delighting visitors since 2014. Although it's one of the newer additions to the park—the first Harry Potter roller coaster was unveiled with the park's opening in 2010—it's definitely not one to be missed.

In fact, it'd be pretty hard to miss even if you tried. When you walk up to the ride's entrance, which is of course through the heavy doors of Gringotts Wizarding Bank, the first thing you'll likely see is the imposing and threatening figure of a Ukranian Ironbelly dragon perched atop the structure. Time your visit just right, and you'll catch the sight of a massive burst of flame shooting from the dragon's mouth.

 

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Once inside, Universal puts the meticulous attention to detail on display throughout the rest of the park to good use. In fact, many visitors claim that the space is so ornate and fun to be in, it made the wait time (which can stretch upwards of an hour) fly by. See what makes this one of the Islands of Adventure rides you can't miss:

 

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Key Stats for Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts:

Length of ride: 5 minutes

Type: 4D, steel, launched roller coaster with 2,000 feet of indoor track

Riders' height requirement: 42 inches, but all riders under 48 inches must have a companion to ride with

Biggest drop: Universal is tight-lipped about the exact measurements, but the ride includes an estimated 30-foot drop.

While you wait: Enter through a stunning re-creation of Gringotts Wizarding Bank, complete with four chandeliers, before walking past goblin offices until you get a peek inside Bill Weasley's office.

Get reacquainted with the characters: The animatronic goblins will delight visitors at the entrance, but it's Bill Weasley (played by original actor Domhall Gleeson) that acts as your host and guide throughout the ride. You'll also get appearances from Bellatrix Lestrange as well as our heroes, Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

What to expect: When you reach the tracks, you'll get a pair of 3D goggles to wear during the ride before getting strapped into your car. Once the ride gets going, you'll pass a series of cool video sequences that'll be interspersed with intense action including tilting cars, high speeds, and an attack from a 3D fire-breathing dragon.

Save on entry: Check our site for deals like this one!

If This Coaster Isn't Intense Enough for You . . .

Leave Diagon Alley for Hogsmeade to find Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Another 3D dark ride–roller coaster hybrid, this one features a robotic-arm ride system that allows for more startling movements that will be sure to give you an extra thrill! Plus, while you wait in line you'll get to venture through the hallowed halls of Hogwarts itself.